Piston And Connecting Rod
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2007 Dodge Sprinter. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
- Install the piston rings.NOTE: The connecting rod bearing cap bolts must be examined before reuse. If the threads are necked down, the bolts must be replaced.
- Check connecting rod bolts for necking by holding a scale or straight edge against the threads. If all threads do not contact the scale, the bolt must be replaced.
- Measure the connecting rod bolt. Replace any bolt longer than 40.5 mm (1.590 in.).
- Before installing pistons and connecting rod assemblies into the bore, ensure that compression ring gaps are staggered so that neither is in line with oil ring rail gap.
- Immerse the piston head and rings in clean engine oil, slide the ring compressor over the piston and tighten with the special wrench. Ensure position of rings does not change during this operation.
- Install connecting rod bolt protectors on rod bolts.
- Rotate crankshaft so that the connecting rod journal is on the center of the cylinder bore. Insert rod and piston into cylinder bore and guide rod over the crankshaft journal.CAUTION: Do Not interchange piston assemblies cylinder-to-cylinder or bank-to-bank.
- The arrow on top of piston must be pointing toward front of engine and oil squirt hole on connecting rod faces the major thrust (right) side of the cylinder bore.
- Tap the piston down in cylinder bore, using a hammer handle. At the same time, guide connecting rod into position on connecting rod journal.
- Install rod caps. Install cleaned and inspected connecting rod bolts and tighten to 27 N.m (20 ft. lbs.) Plus 1/4 turn.
- Install the upper oil pan. See INSTALLATION .
- Install the lower oil pan. See INSTALLATION .
- Install the right cylinder head. See INSTALLATION .
- Install the left cylinder head. See INSTALLATION .